Bolognese

Origins and History

The Bolognese originates from the Emilia‑Romagna region of Italy, specifically the city of Bologna. Historical references to a small white companion dog appear in Italian art and literature as early as the 16th century. The breed was refined in the 18th and 19th centuries as a lap dog for aristocratic families and later became a favored companion of the Italian royal court. The modern standard was formalised by the Ente Nazionale della Cinofilia Italiana (ENCI) in 1966 and accepted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1970.

General Characteristics

• Size and build: Small, compact, and well‑balanced; the body is slightly longer than tall.
• Temperament highlights: Affectionate, alert, and eager to please, with a lively yet gentle disposition.
• Primary breed purpose: Companion dog; excels in the toy and companion categories of conformation shows.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males and females 23–30 cm (9–12 in) at the withers.
• Weight: Proportionate to height, typically 2.5–4 kg (5–9 lb).

Coat and Color

• Texture and length: Long, silky, slightly wavy hair that forms a soft, flowing coat without an undercoat. The coat should lie close to the body and be free of harshness.
• Accepted colors and patterns: Pure white is the only colour accepted by the FCI standard. Very light shades of ivory or cream may be tolerated if they do not affect the overall white appearance.

Temperament Considerations

The Bolognese is highly people‑oriented and thrives on human interaction. Its gentle nature makes it responsive to positive‑reinforcement methods, but the breed can be sensitive to harsh corrections.

Training Essentials

• Socialization requirements: Early exposure to varied stimuli (people, sounds, surfaces) between 8 weeks and 4 months is essential to prevent timidity.
• Exercise needs: Short, regular play sessions (15‑30 minutes) and mental enrichment are sufficient; excessive high‑impact activity should be avoided.
• Common training challenges: Stubbornness in repetitive tasks and a tendency to become overly attached, which can lead to separation anxiety if not managed.

Daily Grooming

• Brushing frequency and tools: Brush 2‑3 times daily with a slicker brush or a metal comb to prevent matting.
• Bathing requirements: Bathe every 3‑4 weeks or as needed; use a mild, hypoallergenic shampoo to preserve the coat’s silkiness.
• Nail and dental care: Trim nails weekly; brush teeth at least 3 times per week and provide regular dental chews.

Show Preparation

• Pre‑show grooming timeline: Begin a full coat trim 7‑10 days before the show, followed by a light brush‑out the day before to achieve a smooth, flowing appearance.
• Ring presentation tips: Ensure the coat is clean, free of debris, and evenly trimmed to the standard length; maintain a calm, confident gait and a steady head carriage.

Common Health Issues

• Patellar luxation (especially Grade II‑III).
• Dental overcrowding leading to early periodontal disease.
• Cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – inherited ocular conditions.
• Hip dysplasia – rare but screened in breeding programs.

General Care

• Exercise requirements: Moderate daily activity; short walks and interactive play keep the Bolognese fit.
• Nutritional needs: High‑quality small‑breed kibble formulated for maintenance; monitor caloric intake to prevent obesity.
• Lifespan considerations: Typically 14–16 years; regular veterinary check‑ups and preventive care extend longevity.

Disclaimer: While the information provided reflects current breed standards and recognized health concerns, individual dogs may vary. Prospective owners should consult breed‑specific clubs and veterinary professionals for personalized guidance.